Recruitment, Selection and Retention Guidelines for Foreign Teachers of International Schools in Bangkok

Abstract

 This research aimed to study the current situation, problems with recruitment, and the selection and retention of overseas teachers for international schools in Bangkok. The population comprised fifty-two international schools located in Bangkok. The respondents were one school administrator and one foreign teacher of each school. Data were collected by questionnaires and focus groups. The results were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The findings revealed that 1) in the current situation, most schools did not renew a contract with a teacher due to failure to meet school expectations and have to arrange for new recruitment by considering teaching experience. Further, 2) most schools relied on interviewing potential teachers as part of their local and international selection process, while 3) medical insurance as welfare and support for visa and work permit service and fees could help to retain foreign teachers. Finally, 4) the problems of recruitment and retention included the high cost of recruiting and uncompetitive remuneration, and 5) the different of standards for bachelor’s degrees in various countries and the lack of flexibility in degree equivalency assessment. Thus, the guidelines were 1) school administrators should work together in the process of selecting and qualifying foreign teachers, 2) school administrators should be in accordance with the regulations set by government agencies, and 3) schools should provide essential trainings continually and welcome teachers to be involved in setting goals.